Joe Schmidt says he will name his captain for the November Internationals next week.

The Ireland cead coach has delayed announcing the identity of his skipper for the three games against Samoa, Australia and New Zealand because of fitness concerns surrounding some of his most experienced players.

However, Schmidt has received a boost with the news that Brian O'Driscoll has confirmed that he will be fit for next month's matches.

The veteran centre has not played since last month because of a calf muscle tear but has trained in full with the rest of the Irish squad this week.

©INPHO/Dan Sheridan